January 20,Drugs used for Hematological Disorders

Here are a couple of drugs that is important to know for the NCLEX.

Antiplatelets

Anticoagulants

Antiplatelets

Antiplatelets- Coagulation disorders can be treated pharmcologically by preventing the formation of blood clots (thrombi) or by dissolving the existing thrombi. Antiplatelet, anticoagulants and thrombolytics drugs are used in treatment of these coagulation disorders.

Basically, antiplatelet drugs interefere with platelet membrane function, by preventing the release of platelet constituents, and prolong bleeding time, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation. Aspirin is the most frequently used antiplatelet drug

Uses: Antiplatelet drugs are used more frequently to prevent arterial thrombosis. Aspirin is indicated for thromboembolic disorders to prevent myocardial infarction (MI) and cerebrovascular accident (CVA)

Antiplatelet drugs are contraindicated for women during pregnancy and lactation.

Aspirin use in children and adolescents with influenza-like symptoms or chicken pox is contraindicated because of possible associateion with Reye’s Syndrome.

Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are drugs that suppress the production of fibrin, thereby dissrupting the coagulation cascade. You have to understand that both anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs suppress thrombosis but through different mechanism.